Composite joint configuration

ABSTRACT

A sidewall of a trailer is formed from at least two composite panels joined together by a novel joining configuration. Each panel is formed from inner and outer thin metal skins and a plastic core sandwiched between the skins. A logistics plate and a splicing member are used to join the panels together and are secured thereto by rivets.

This application is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 10/120,096,entitled “Composite Joint Configuration” and filed on Apr. 10, 2002 nowabandoned, which, in turn, is a Continuation of Ser. No. 09/802,311,entitled “Composite Joint Configuration” and filed on Mar. 8, 2001, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,412,854 issued Jul. 2, 2202, which in turn, is aDivisional of Ser. No. 09/108,536, entitled “Composite JointConfiguration” and filed on Jul. 1, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,220,651issued Jun. 1, 2004, which in turn, is a Continuation-in-Part of Ser.No. 08/712,770, entitled “Composite Joint Configuration” and filed onSep. 12, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,860,693 issued Apr. 24, 2001.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention is generally directed to a novel sidewall for a trailerbody. More particularly, the invention relates to joined compositepanels for trailer bodies, wherein each composite panel includes aplastic core member sandwiched between thin metal skins and joinedtogether by novel joints.

Trailers of the general type disclosed herein include a variety of typesof sidewalls. A typical well-known construction is a panel-type trailerwhich includes aluminum side posts. Generally, it is desirable to have arelatively thin trailer sidewall so that the total inside dimensions ofthe trailer body can be increased to carry the optimum amount of cargo.In addition, it is desirable to have a trailer sidewall which islightweight.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A general object of the present invention is to provide a novel jointconfiguration for joining a pair of composite panels together in atrailer sidewall, wherein a plurality of such joined panels may be usedto form the trailer sidewall.

An object of the present invention is to provide a novel sidewall foruse in a trailer body, which sidewall is simple in design and economicalto manufacture while at the same time providing maximum interior spacein the trailer body.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel sidewallhaving a plurality of joined composite panels, wherein each compositepanel includes a plastic core member sandwiched between thin metalskins.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a novel sidewallfor use in a trailer body, which sidewall is easily attached to the roofand the floor of the trailer body.

These and other objects and features of the present invention willbecome more apparent from a reading of the following descriptions.

Briefly, and in accordance with the foregoing, the present inventiondiscloses a sidewall of a trailer which is formed from at least twocomposite panels joined together by a novel joining configuration. Eachpanel is formed from inner and outer thin metal skins and a plastic coresandwiched between the skins.

In several embodiments, at least one of the skins has at least one endcoined to as to compress the core between the skins to define a coinedend section. A logistics plate and a splicing member are used to jointhe panels together and are secured thereto by rivets. The logisticsplate and/or the splicing member sit against the coined end sections.The splicing member may have flat top and bottom portions to facilitatein the attachment of the panels to the top and bottom rails of thetrailer.

In other embodiments, a logistics plate member is secured by rivets tothe panels for joining them together. The splicing member is eliminatedand instead, the outer skin of at least one panel is extended to liebehind the logistics plate.

In another embodiment, the inner skin may have rolled or formed groovesto provide a smooth transition from a logistics plate having rollededges.

In yet other embodiments, one end of each panel has a thickness which isless than the other end of the panel. The skins at the greater thicknessend of the panel freely project beyond an end of the core member. Thelesser thickness end is inserted between the skins of the other panel atthe greater thickness end and secured thereto by rivets. To form thelesser thickness, the end of the panel may be coined or the panel maytaper from one end to the other end. An insert member, made of hardplastic or metal, may be used between the skins where the rivet isinserted in any of the embodiments to substantially prevent compressionof the panels.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The organization and manner of the structure and operation of theinvention, together with further objects and advantages thereof, maybest be understood by reference to the following description, taken inconnection with the accompanying drawings, wherein like referencenumerals identify like elements in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a trailer having a plurality of joinedpanels forming the sidewalls of the trailer which incorporates thefeatures of the invention, with the trailer connected to a tractor;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a pair of joined panels used in forminga sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates thefeatures of a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pair of joined panels used in forminga sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates thefeatures of a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pair of joined panels used in forminga sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates thefeatures of a third embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a pair of joined panels used in forminga sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates thefeatures of a fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the joined panels shown in FIG. 5along line 6—6;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a pair of joined panels used informing a sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates thefeatures of a fifth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a pair of joined panels used in forminga sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates thefeatures of a sixth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the joined panels shown in FIG. 8along line 9—9;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a panel used in forming a sidewallof the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates the features of aseventh embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a pair of panels shown in FIG. 10joined together, for use in forming a sidewall of the trailer shown inFIG. 1 which incorporates the features of the seventh embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a panel used in forming a sidewallof the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates the features of aeighth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pair of panels shown in FIG. 12joined together, for use in forming a sidewall of the trailer shown inFIG. 1 which incorporates the features of the eighth embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a trailer having a plurality of joinedpanels forming the sidewalls of the trailer which incorporates thefeatures of the invention;

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary perspective view of a pair of joined panelsused in forming a sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 14 whichincorporates the features of a ninth embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a pair of joined panels used informing a sidewall of the trailer shown in FIG. 1 which incorporates thefeatures of a tenth embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

While the invention may be susceptible to embodiment in different forms,there is shown in the drawings, and herein will be described in detail,specific embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosureis to be considered an exemplification of the principles of theinvention, and is not intended to limit the invention to that asillustrated and described herein.

Turning now to the drawings, a trailer 20, 20 a constructed inaccordance with the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1 and 14. Thetrailer 20 of FIG. 1 is shown connected to a tractor 21 by conventionalmeans, such as a fifth wheel assembly. The trailer 20 a of FIG. 14 canlikewise be connected to a tractor. The trailer 20, 20 a includes a body22, 22 a formed from a pair of rectangular sidewalls 24, 24 a, a frontwall 26, 26 a, rear doors 28, 28 a, a top panel or roof 30, 30 a and afloor 32, 32 a. The floor 32, 32 a is supported by a conventional rearundercarriage assembly 34, 34 a and has a landing gear 36, 36 a securedthereunder. The top panel 30, 30 a and an upper portion of the sidewalls24, 24 a are secured to a top rail 38, 38 a and the floor 32, 32 a andlower portion of the sidewalls 24, 24 a are secured to a bottom rail 40,40 a.

The top rail 38 a, as shown in FIG. 14, is an L-shaped member having afirst flat portion 39 a and a second flat portion 41 a. The firstportion 39 a is perpendicular to the second portion 41 a. The firstportion 39 a of the top rail 38 a attaches to the top panel or roof 30 awhile the second portion 41 a of the top rail 38 a attaches to thesidewalls 24 a. The bottom rail 40 a, as shown in FIG. 14, is of similarconstruction to the top rail 38 a and attaches to the floor 32 a and thesidewalls 24 a in a similar manner as the top rail 38 a attaches to theroof 30 a and the sidewalls 24 a. The top and bottom rails 38 a, 40 amaybe formed out of aluminum by an extrusion process.

Each sidewall 24, 24 a includes a plurality of vertical upstandingcomposite side panels 42, 42 a joined together by a novel jointconfiguration 44, 44 a. Each composite side panel 42, 42 a includes aplastic core member sandwiched between an inner thin metal skin and anouter thin metal skin and bonded thereto by a suitable known adhesive orother like means. One advantage of the composite panel 42, 42 a used inthe present invention is that it can be coined or stepped down easily byapplying pressure to the area to be coined or stepped down, whereas inthe prior art aluminum sidewalls, the aluminum sidewall could not beeasily coined.

The inner skin and the outer skin are preferably approximately 0.026inches thick. The skins are preferably made of aluminum; galvanized,full hardened steel, such as AISI Grade E full hard steel because of itscost effectiveness, or the like. Preferably, the outer skin is made ofASTM G90 galvanized steel and the inner skin is made of ASTM G60galvanized steel. Aluminum may be used, but it may be too soft for somepurposes and strength and punch resistance are sacrificed, however,aluminum is lightweight. Typically, each panel 42, 42 a is four feet inwidth, but can be longer or shorter depending on the application. Atleast two panels are joined together by the novel joint configuration44, 44 a to form the sidewall 24, 24 a of the trailer body 22, 22 a.

Each core member is made of some type of compressible non-metalmaterial, preferably thermoplastic, such as polypropylene or highdensity polyethylene. These materials are relatively inexpensive ascompared to aluminum found in prior trailer wall constructions. Inaddition, because a composite panel 42, 42 a is used, the weight of thetrailer construction is reduced over trailers having aluminum sidewalls.

Attention is now directed to the various embodiments of the novel jointconfiguration 44, 44 a used in forming the trailer sidewalls 24, 24 a asshown in FIGS. 2–13, 15–16. A first embodiment of the jointconfiguration 144 is shown in FIG. 2. A second embodiment of the jointconfiguration 244 is shown in FIG. 3; a third embodiment of the jointconfiguration 344 is shown in FIG. 4; a fourth embodiment of the jointconfiguration 444 is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6; a fifth embodiment of thejoint configuration 544 is shown in FIG. 7; a sixth embodiment of thejoint configuration 644 is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9; a seventh embodimentof the joint configuration 744 is shown in FIG. 11; an eighth embodimentof the joint configuration 844 is shown in FIG. 13; a ninth embodimentof the joint configuration 944 is shown in FIG. 15; and a tenthembodiment of the joint configuration 1044 is shown in FIG. 16. Likeelements are denoted with like reference numerals with the firstembodiment being in the one hundreds, the second embodiment being in thetwo hundreds, the third embodiment being in the three hundreds, thefourth embodiment being in the four hundreds, the fifth embodiment beingin the five hundreds, the sixth embodiment being in the six hundreds,the seventh embodiment being in the seven hundreds, the eighthembodiment being in the eight hundreds, the ninth embodiment being inthe nine hundreds and the tenth embodiment being in the ten hundreds. Asshown in the drawings, only a portion of two joined panels 142 a, 142 b;242 a, 242 b; 342 a, 342 b; 442 a, 442 b; 542 a, 542 b; 642 a, 642 b;742 a, 742 b; 842 a, 842 b; 942 a, 942 b; 1042 a, 1042 b are shown. Itis to be understood that a plurality of panels may be used to form eachsidewall 124, 224, 324, 424, 524, 624, 724, 824, 924, 1024. In addition,the novel joint 144, 244, 344, 444, 544, 644, 744, 844, 944, 1044 isonly shown between one end of the two panels 142 a, 142 b; 242 a, 242 b;342 a, 342 b; 442 a, 442 b; 542 a, 542 b; 642 a, 642 b; 742 a, 742 b;842 a, 842 b; 942 a, 942 b; 1042 a, 1042 b. It is to be understood thata like joint is provided between each adjacent end of each panel used toform the trailer sidewall.

Directing attention to the first embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 144 shown in FIG. 2, first and second composite panels 142a, 142 b are shown and are joined together by a logistics plate 152 onthe inside of the trailer 20 which extends along the entire height ofthe panels 142 a, 142 b and by a splicing member 154 on the outside ofthe trailer 20 which extends along the entire height of the panels 142a, 142 b. The ends 156 a, 156 b of the panels 142 a, 142 b are spacedapart from each other when joined by the logistics plate 152 and thesplicing member 154 such that an air pocket 158 is formed between thelogistics plate 152 and the splicing member 154.

Each end of the inner skins 148 a, 148 b of each panel 142 a, 142 b havean end section 160 a, 160 b (only one of which is shown on each panel142 a, 142 b) which is coined or stepped down with an intermediatesection 161 a, 161 b of each panel 142 a, 142 b remaining planar. Theouter skin 150 a, 150 b of the panels 142 a, 142 b is not coined andremains planar. When the end section 160 a, 160 b of each inner skin 148a, 148 b is coined, the core member 146 a, 146 b is squeezed orcompressed between the inner and outer skins 148 a, 150 a; 148 b, 150 band the core member 146 a, 146 b may slightly extrude outwardly from theends of the skins 148 a, 150 a; 148 b, 150 b and into the air pocket 158formed between the panels 142 a, 142 b.

The logistics plate 152 is a flat member having an inner surface and anouter surface and which has a plurality of spaced openings or slots 162therethrough along an intermediate portion of the logistics plate 152.The slots 162 provide a means for which equipment can be engaged, forexample by a clip or a hook, to the sidewall 24 of the trailer 20. Thelogistics plate 152 is preferably formed from a heavier and strongermaterial than the material that is used for the skins 148 a, 150 a; 148b, 150 b to provide the sidewall with strength and rigidity. When thelogistics plate 152 is joined with the inner skins 148 a, 148 b of thepanels 142 a, 142 b, the outer surface of the logistics plate 152 sitsagainst the inner surfaces of the inner end sections 160 a, 160 b suchthat the inner surface of the logistics plate 152 is flush with theinner surfaces of the intermediate sections 161 a, 161 b of the innerskins 148 a, 148 b to provide a co-planar surface along the length ofthe sidewall 24 in the interior of the trailer 20. Because the ends ofthe logistics plate 152 are flush with the intermediate sections 161 a,161 b of the inner skins 148 a, 148 b, snagging of cargo on the edges ofthe logistics plate 152 is substantially prevented. The logistics plate152 bridges the gap between the panels 142 a, 142 b such that the slots162 align with the air pocket 158 so that clips or hooks can be engagedwith the slots 162.

The splicing member 154, which is like a post, is attached to the outersurface of the outer skins 150 a, 150 b and extends to clear the top andbottom rails 38, 40 of the trailer 20. The splicing member 154 has flatend portions 164 which lie against the outer surfaces of the outer skins150 a, 150 b and an intermediate portion 166 which bulges outwardly fromthe end portions 164. When the splicing member 154 is joined with theouter surfaces of the outer skins 150 a, 150 b of the panels 142 a, 142b, the inner surfaces of the end portions 164 lie against the planarouter skins 150 a, 150 b and the intermediate portion 166 bulgesoutwardly from the sidewall. The splicing member 154 bridges the gapformed between the panels 142 a, 142 b such that the bulgingintermediate portion 166 aligns with the air pocket 158. Because thebulge is provided on the outside of the trailer 20, a smooth innersurface is provided within the trailer 20. This allows for more widthwithin the inside of the trailer 20 to load freight therein.

The logistics plate 152 and splicing member 154 are attached to thefirst and second panels 142 a, 142 b by suitable means, such as rivets168, which extend through the logistics plate 152, the respective coinedsections 160 a, 160 b of the panels 142 a, 142 b and the end portions164 of the splicing member 154. The splicing member 154 seals thejunction between the panels 142 a, 142 b on the exterior of the trailer20 so as to seal the interior from moisture.

Attention is now directed to the second embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 244 shown in FIG. 3. In this embodiment, first and secondcomposite panels 242 a, 242 b are joined together by a logistics plate252 on the inside of the trailer 20 which extends along the entireheight of the panels 242 a, 242 b and by a splicing member 254 on theoutside of the trailer which extends along the entire height of thepanels 242 a, 242 b. The ends 256 a, 256 b of the panels 242 a, 242 bare spaced apart from each other to provide a gap therebetween whenjoined by the logistics plate 252 and the splicing member 254 such thatan air pocket 258 is formed between the logistics plate 252 and thesplicing member 254.

Each end of the outer skins 250 a, 250 b of each panel 242 a, 242 b havean end section 263 a, 263 b (only one of which is shown on each panel242 a, 242 b) which is coined or stepped down with an intermediatesection 265 a, 265 b of each panel 242 a, 242 b remaining planar. Theinner skin 248 a, 248 b of the panels 242 a, 242 b is not coined andremains planar. When the end section 263 a, 263 b of each outer skin 250a, 250 b is coined, the core member 246 a, 246 b is squeezed orcompressed between the skins 248 a, 250 a; 248 b, 250 b and the coremember 246 a, 246 b may slightly extrude outwardly from the ends 256 a,256 b of the panels 242 a, 242 b and into the air pocket 258.

The logistics plate 252 acts like a post and has end portions 270 whichare flat and an intermediate portion 272 which bulges inwardly from theend portions 270. The bulging intermediate portion 272 has a pluralityof spaced openings or slots 274 therethrough. The slots 274 provide ameans for which equipment can be engaged, for example by a clip or ahook, to the trailer sidewall. The logistics plate 252 is preferablyformed from a heavier and stronger material than the material that isused for the skins 248 a, 250 a, 248 b, 250 b to provide the sidewall 24with strength and rigidity. When the logistics plate 252 is joined withthe inner skins 248 a, 248 b of the panels 242 a, 242 b, the outersurface of the end portions 270 sits against the inner surface of theinner skins 248 a, 248 b such that the intermediate portion 272 bulgesto the inside of the trailer 20. The logistics plate 252 bridges the gapformed between the panels 242 a, 242 b such that the bulgingintermediate portion 272 which has the slots 274 therethrough alignswith the gap.

The splicing member 254 is flat and extends to clear the top and bottomrails 38, 40 of the trailer 20. When the splicing member is joined withthe outer skins 250 a, 250 b of the panels 242 a, 242 b, the innersurface of the splicing member 254 sits against the coined end sections263 a, 263 b such that the outer surface of the splicing member 254 isflush with the outer surface of the respective intermediate sections 265a, 265 b of the outer skins 250 a, 250 b to provide a co-planar surfacealong the length of the sidewall 24 on the outside of the trailer 20.The splicing member 254 bridges the gap formed between the panels 242 a,242 b.

The logistics plate 252 and the splicing member 254 are attached to therespective first and second panels 242 a, 242 b by suitable means, suchas rivets 268, through the end portions 270 of the logistics plate 252,the respective coined sections 263 a, 263 b of the panels 242 a, 242 band the splicing member 254. The splicing member 254 seals the junctionbetween the panels 242 a, 242 b on the exterior of the trailer 20 so asto seal the interior from moisture.

Directing attention to the third embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 344 shown in FIG. 4, first and second composite panels 342a, 342 b are joined together by a logistics plate 352 on the inside ofthe trailer 20 which extends along the entire height of the panels 342a, 342 b and by a splicing member 354 on the outside of the trailer 20which extends along the entire height of the panels 342 a, 342 b. Theends 356 a, 356 b of the panels 342 a, 342 b are spaced apart from eachother to provide a gap therebetween when joined by the logistics plate352 and the splicing member 354 such that an air pocket 358 is formedbetween the logistics plate 352 and the splicing member 354.

Each end of the inner skins 348 a, 348 b of each panel 342 a, 342 b hasan end section 360 a, 360 b (only one of which is shown on each panel342 a, 342 b) which is coined or stepped down with an intermediatesection 361 a, 361 b of each panel 342 a, 342 b remaining planar. Eachend of the outer skins 350 a, 350 b of each panel 342 a, 342 b have anend section 363 a, 363 b (only one of which is shown on each panel 342a, 342 b) which is coined or stepped down with an intermediate section365 a, 365 b of each panel 342 a, 342 b remaining planar. When the endsections 360 a, 363 a; 360 b, 363 b are coined, the respective coremembers 346 a, 346 b are squeezed or compressed between the skins 348 a,348 b; 350 a, 350 b and may slightly extrude outwardly from the ends 356a, 356 b of the panels 342 a, 342 b and into the air pocket 358.

The logistics plate 352 and the splicing member 354 are identical inconstruction to the second embodiment of the logistics plate 252 and thesplicing member 254 shown and described with respect to FIG. 3.Therefore, the specifics of the construction of the logistics plate 352and the splicing member 354 are not repeated herein and instead, thereference numerals are denoted with like numerals and are shown in thedrawings.

When the logistics plate 354 is joined with the inner skins 348 a, 348 bof the panels 342 a, 342 b, the outer surfaces of the flat end portions370 sit against the inner surfaces of the respective coined end sections360 a, 360 b such that the inner surfaces of the end portions 370 areflush with the inner surfaces of the intermediate sections 361 a, 361 bof the inner skins 348 a, 348 b and the intermediate portion 372 of thelogistics plate 352 bulges to the inside of the trailer 20. The ends 356a, 356 b of the panels 342 a, 342 b are spaced apart from each other.Because the inner surfaces of the end portions 370 are flush with theinner surfaces of the intermediate sections 361 a, 361 b of the skins348 a, 348 b, snagging of cargo on the edges of the logistics plate 352is substantially prevented. The logistics plate 352 bridges the gapformed between the panels 342 a, 342 b such that the bulgingintermediate portion 372, which has the openings or slots 372 therein,aligns with the air pocket 358.

When the flat splicing member 354 is joined with the outer skins 350 a,350 b of the panels 342 a, 342 b, the inner surface of the splicingmember 354 sits against the outer surfaces of the coined end sections363 a, 363 b such that the outer surface of the flat splicing member 354is flush with the outer surfaces of the intermediate sections 365 a, 365b of the outer skins 350 a, 350 b to provide a co-planar surface alongthe length of the sidewall 24 on the outside of the trailer 20. Thesplicing member 354 bridges the gap formed between the panels 342 a, 342b.

The logistics plate 352 and the splicing member 354 are attached to therespective first and second panels 342 a, 342 b by suitable means, suchas rivets 368, through the end portions 370 of the logistics plate 352,the coined portions of the panels 342 a, 342 b and the splicing member354. The splicing member 354 seals the junction between the panels 342a, 342 b on the exterior of the trailer 20 so as to seal the interiorfrom moisture.

Attention is now directed to the fourth embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 444 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. In this embodiment, first andsecond composite panels 442 a, 442 b are joined together by a logisticsplate 452 on the inside of the trailer 20 which extends along the entireheight of the panels 442 a, 442 b and the splicing member provided inthe previous embodiments has been eliminated.

At one end of the first panel 442 a, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, theouter skin 450 a has a length that is substantially longer than thelength of the inner skin 448 a. The ends of the inner and outer skins448 a, 450 a freely project beyond the end of the core member 446 a soas to leave an open area between the inner and outer skins 448 a, 450 aat the ends of the first panel 442 a. At the other end of the panel 442a (not shown), the inner and outer skins 448 a, 450 a freely projectbeyond the end of the core member 446 a the same distance so as to leavean open area between the inner and outer skins 448 a, 450 a.

At one end of the second panel 442 b, the inner and outer skins 448 b,450 b are of the same length and freely project beyond the end of thecore member 446 b the same amount so as to leave an open area betweenthe inner and outer skins 448 b, 450 b. This structure is identical tothe end of panel 442 a which is not shown. At the opposite end of thesecond panel 442 b, the construction is identical to the end of thefirst panel 442 a shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

The logistics plate 452 is formed by extruded or formed aluminum. Thelogistics plate 452 has flat end portions 470 with an intermediateportion 472 that bulges inwardly therefrom. The end portions 470 areapproximately the same thickness as the thickness of the core members446 a, 446 b and each have a length which is approximately equal to thedistance between the end of each inner skin 448 a, 448 b to therespective core members 446 a, 446 b. The bulging intermediate portion472 has a thickness which is substantially less than the thickness ofthe end portions 470 and has a plurality of spaced openings or slots 474along the length thereof.

To assemble the logistics plate 452 with the first and second panels 442a, 442 b, the end portions 470 of the logistics plate 452 are insertedbetween the inner and outer skins 448 a, 450 a; 448 b, 450 b of thefirst and second panels 442 a, 442 b such that the ends of the endportions 470 generally abut against the ends of the core members 446 a,446 b. The ends of the inner skins 448 a, 448 b sit adjacent to thejunction between the respective end portions 470 and the bulgingintermediate portion 472 of the logistics plate 452. The outer skin 450a of the first panel 442 a extends behind the logistics plate 452 andlies against the outer skin 450 b of the second panel 442 b. The outerskin 450 a may lie against outer skin 450 b on the inside thereof or theoutside thereof. An air pocket 458 is formed between the bulgingintermediate portion 472 of the logistics plate 452 and the outer skin450 a of the first panel 442 a. The slots 474 align with the air pocket458 so that clips, hooks or the like can be attached thereto forattaching equipment to the logistics plate 452. Rivets 468 are engagedthrough the respective inner skins 448 a, 448 b, the respective endportions 470 of the logistics plate 452, the respective outer skins 450a, 450 b and the extension of the outer skin 450 a.

The extension of the first panel outer skin 450 a eliminates the needfor the separate splicing member as used in the first, second and thirdembodiments. The outer skin 450 a is very thin, however, and, as such,does not provide as much reinforcement as the splicing member provides.The extension of the first panel outer skin 450 a seals the junctionbetween the panels 442 a, 442 b on the exterior of the trailer 20 so asto seal the interior from moisture.

Directing attention to the fifth embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 544 shown in FIG. 7, this embodiment is the same as thejoint configuration 444 shown in the fourth embodiment except that theflat end portions 570 of the logistics plate 552 are not the samethickness as the core members 546 a, 546 b. Instead, the flat endportions 570 and the bulging intermediate portion 572 of the logisticsplate 552 are of a substantially uniform thickness.

To fill the space between the respective end portions 570 of thelogistics plate 552 and the respective outer skins 550 a, 550 b, aninsert 576 is provided in each such space. Each insert 576 is made ofhigh density plastic or metal and completely fills the space between theouter skin 550 a, 550 b and the end portion 570 of the logistics plate552. The rivets 568 are engaged through the respective inner skins 548a, 548 b, the respective end portions 570 of the logistics plate 552,the respective inserts 576 and the respective outer skins 550 a, 550 b.When the rivets 568 are inserted through the panels 542 a, 542 b, theinsert 576 substantially prevents compression of the panels 542 a, 542b, which can occur during the insertion of a rivet because the coremember 546 a, 546 b is made of a compressible material.

Alternatively, the logistics plate 552 could be attached to the innersurface of the inner skins 548 a, 548 b with the respective inserts 576completely filling the space between the skins 548 a, 550 a; 548 b, 550b. In addition, the logistics plate 552 could be attached to the innersurface of the inner skins 548 a, 548 b, the insert 576 eliminated, andthe core member 546 a, 546 b used to completely fill the space betweenthe skins 548 a, 550 a; 548 a, 550 a.

Directing attention to the sixth embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 644 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, first and second compositepanels 642 a, 642 b are joined together by a logistics plate 652 on theinside of the trailer 20 which extends along the entire height of thepanels 642 a, 642 b and, like the fourth and fifth embodiments, thesplicing member provided in the previous embodiments has beeneliminated.

At each end of the first panel 642 a, the outer skin 650 a has a lengththat is substantially longer than the length of the inner skin 648 a.The ends of the inner and outer skins 648 a, 650 a freely project beyondthe end of the core member 646 a so as to leave an open area between theinner and outer skins 648 a, 650 a at each end of the first panel 642 a.

The second panel 642 b is similarly constructed to the first panel 642a. At each end of the second panel 642 b, the outer skin 650 b has alength that is substantially longer than the length of the inner skin648 b. The ends of the inner and outer skins 648 b, 650 b freely projectbeyond the end of the core member 646 b so as to leave an open areabetween the inner and outer skins 648 b, 650 b at each end of the secondpanel 642 b.

The logistics plate 652 is identical in construction to that describedwith respect to the fourth embodiment. Thus, a repetition of theconstruction of the logistics plate 652 is not repeated herein.

To assemble the logistics plate 652 with the first and second panels 642a, 642 b, the flat end portions 670 of the logistics plate 652 areinserted between the inner and outer skins 648 a, 650 a; 648 b, 650 b ofthe first and second panels 642 a, 642 b such that the ends of the endportions 670 generally abut against the ends of the core members 646 a,646 b. The ends of the inner skins 648 a, 648 b sit adjacent to thejunction between the respective end portions 670 and the bulgingintermediate portion 672 of the logistics plate 652. The outer skin 650b of the second panel 642 b extends behind the logistics plate 652 andlays against the outer skin 650 a of the first panel 642 a. The outerskin 650 a of the first panel 642 a extends behind the logistics plate652 and lies against the outer skin 650 b of the second panel 642 b. Theouter skin 650 a may lie against outer skin 650 b on the inside or theoutside of outer skin 650 b. An air pocket 658 is formed between thebulging intermediate portion 672 of the logistics plate 652 and theouter skin 650 a of the first panel 642 a. The openings or slots 674align with the air pocket 658 so that clips or the like can be attachedthereto for attaching equipment to the logistics plate 652. Rivets 668are engaged through the respective inner skins 648 a, 648 b, therespective end portions 670 of the logistics plate 652 and therespective outer skins 650 a, 650 b and the extensions of the outerskins 650 a, 650 b.

Because the outer skin 650 a of the first panel 642 a overlays the outerskin 650 b of the second panel 642 b, a bend 678 is provided in theouter skin 650 a of the first panel 642 a so that the outer skins 650 a,650 b lie against each other. This forms a double thickness behind theintermediate portion 672 of the logistics plate 652 to provide morestrength and rigidity than when a single thickness is used, such as thatshown in the fourth and fifth embodiments. The extension of the outerskins 650 a, 650 b of the first and second panels 642 a, 642 beliminates the need for the separate splicing member as shown in theprevious embodiments. If desired, inserts, like those provided in thefifth embodiment, may be provided. The extensions of the outer skins 650a, 650 b seal the junction between the panels 642 a, 642 b on theexterior of the trailer 20 so as to seal the interior from moisture.

In the fourth, fifth and sixth embodiments of the novel composite jointconfigurations 444, 544, 644, the rivets 468, 568, 668 are engaged byusing the method and apparatus disclosed in co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/620,999, entitled “Method of Punching AComposite Plate”, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,774,972, which is commonly ownedby the assignee herein and which disclosure is herein incorporated byreference. If desired, holes can be provided through the logistic panel452, 552, 652 and the panels 442 a, 442 b; 542 a, 542 b; 642 a, 642 b.

Attention is now directed to the seventh embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 744, shown in FIG. 11, which has first and secondcomposite panels 742 a, 742 b. One of the panels 742 b is shown in FIG.10. It is to be understood that the other panels used to construct thetrailer sidewall are identical in construction. At one end of the panel742 b, as shown in FIG. 10, the inner and outer skins 748 b, 750 b arelonger than its associated core member 746 b so as to freely projectbeyond the end of the core member 746 b. At the opposite end of thepanel 742 b, the inner and outer skins 748 b, 750 b are stepped down orcoined so as to provide an end portion 780 b which has a thickness thatis less than the thickness of the remainder of the panel 742 b. The edgeof the core member 746 b is generally flush with the end of the coinedend portion 780 b of the panel 742 b, however, when the skins 748 b, 750b are coined, some core material may extrude outwardly therefrom.

As shown in FIG. 11, to connect the panels 742 a, 742 b together to forma sidewall 24 of the trailer 20, the coined end portion 780 b of onepanel 742 b is inserted between the freely projecting inner and outerskins 748 a, 750 a of the adjacent panel 742 a. When interconnectedtogether, the outer surface of the inner skin 748 b of panel 742 b liesagainst the inner surface of the inner skin 748 a of panel 742 a and theouter surface of the outer skin 750 b of panel 742 b lies against theinner surface of the outer skin 750 a of panel 742 a. When the panels742 a, 742 b are joined together, because of the coined end portion 780b, the inner surfaces and outer surfaces of the panels 742 a, 742 b aresmooth and flush along the length thereof on the inside and outside ofthe trailer 20. An insert, like that disclosed in the fifth embodiment,may replace the core material between the skins in the coined endportion 780 b, if desired. Rivets 768 are engaged through the freelyprojecting ends of the inner and outer skins 748 a, 750 a and the coinedend portion 780 b.

Attention is now directed to the eighth embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 844, shown in FIG. 13, which has first and secondcomposite panels 842 a, 842 b. One of the panels 842 a is shown in FIG.12. It is to be understood that the other panels used to construct thetrailer sidewall 24 are identical in construction. At each end of thepanel 842 b, as shown in FIG. 12, the inner and outer skins 848 b, 850 bare longer than its associated core member 846 b so as to freely projectbeyond the ends of the core member 846 b. The panel 842 b tapers fromone end to the other end such that the distance D1 between the inner andouter skins 848 b, 850 b at one end is greater than the distance D2between the inner and outer skins 848 b, 850 b at the other end. Thus,the core member 846 b tapers from one end of the panel 842 b to theother end of the panel 842 b.

As shown in this embodiment, an insert 876, like the insert 576 in thefifth embodiment, is provided between the freely projecting skins 848 b,850 b at the end of the panel 842 b which has the lesser thickness. Theinsert 876 completely fills the space between the inner and outer skins848 b, 850 b and is made of high density plastic, metal or the like.When the rivets 868 are inserted through the panels 842 a, 842 b, theinsert 876 substantially prevents compression of the panels 842 a, 842b, which can occur during the insertion of a rivet because the coremember 846 a, 846 b is made of a compressible material. Alternatively,the insert 876 could be eliminated and the core member 846 b extended tofill the space.

To connect the panels together to form a sidewall 24 the trailer 20, thesmaller end of one panel 842 b is inserted into the larger end of theadjacent panel 842 a. When interconnected together, the outer surface ofthe inner skin 848 b of panel 842 b lies against the inner surface ofthe inner skin 848 a of panel 842 a and the outer surface of outer skin850 b of panel 842 b lies against the inner surface of the outer skin850 a of panel 842 a.

In the seventh and eighth embodiments of the novel joint configuration744, 844, each rivet 768, 868 is engaged with the panels by using themethod and apparatus disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 08/620,999 which disclosure has been herein incorporated byreference. During this punching process, the core material may extrudeand fill any gaps between the end of the panel and the core member ofthe other panel. If desired, holes can be provided through the skins ofthe one panel and the reduced portion of the other panel through whichthe rivets are engaged.

Directing attention to the ninth embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 944 shown in FIG. 15, this embodiment is the same as thejoint configuration 144 shown in the first embodiment except that theconstruction of the splicing member 954 is different. It is to beunderstood that the splicing member 954 described with respect to thisembodiment can be used on any of the embodiments in which a splicingmember is provided, e.g., FIG. 5.

The splicing member 954, which is like a post, is attached to the outersurface of the outer skins 950 a, 950 b and is mounted under and extendsbetween the top and bottom rails 38 a, 40 a of the trailer 20 a. Thesplicing member has a flat top portion 970, a flat bottom portion 972and flat side portions 974 which lie against the outer surfaces of theouter skins 950 a, 950 b, and an intermediate portion 966 which bulgesoutwardly from the top, bottom and side portions 970, 972, 974. When thesplicing member 954 is joined with the outer surfaces of the outer skins950 a, 950 b of the panels 942 a, 942 b, the inner surfaces of the sideportions 974 lie against the planar outer skins 950 a, 950 b and theintermediate portion 966 bulges outwardly from the sidewall. The bulgingintermediate portion 966 of the splicing member 954 bridges the airpocket 958 formed between the panels 942 a, 942 b and aligns with theair pocket 958. The bulging intermediate portion 966 provides for morespace within the air pocket 958 to allow for the attachment of members,such as clip or hooks, to the slots 962 of the logistics plate member952. Because the bulge is provided on the outside of the trailer 20 a, asmooth inner surface is provided within the trailer 20 a. This allowsfor more width within the inside of the trailer 20 a to load freighttherein.

The flat top portion 970 and the flat bottom portion 972 of the splicingmember 954 facilitate connection of the panels 942 a, 942 b to the topand bottom rails 38 a, 40 a of the trailer 20 a. In order to connect thesidewalls 24 a to the roof 30 a, the roof 30 a is laid on top of theedges of the sidewalls 24 a. Each top rail 38 a is connected by seatingthe first portion 39 a against the roof 30 a and the second portion 41 aagainst the respective sidewalls 24 a. The second portion 41 a of eachtop rail 38 a sits over the flat top portion 970 of each splicing member954 provided along the length of the respective sidewalls 24 a. Eachbottom rail 40 a connects the floor 32 a and the respective sidewalls 24a in the same manner as each top rail 38 a connects the roof 30 a andthe respective sidewalls 24 a. The flat top portions 970 and the flatbottom portions 972 facilitate in the connection of the panels 942 a,942 b to the top and bottom rails 38 a, 40 a of the trailer 20 a becausethey allow the rails 38 a, 40 a, which have flat second portions 41 a,to easily be positioned against the splicing member 954. If the splicingmembers 954 did not have the flat top and bottom portions 970, 972, butrather have the bulging intermediate portion 966 extending the entireheight of each splicing member 954, the rails 38 a, 40 a would have tobe formed to include bulges to fit over the bulging intermediate portion966 of each splicing member 954. Thus, the use of the flat top andbottom portions 970, 972 on the splicing member 954 allows for a mucheasier connection between the splicing member 954 than if the flat topand bottom portions 970, 972 were not a part of the splicing member 954.

The logistics plate 952 and the splicing member 954 are attached to thefirst and second panels 942 a, 942 b by suitable means, such as rivets968, which extend through the logistics plate 952, the respective coinedsections 960 a, 960 b of the panels 942 a, 942 b, the respective coremembers 946 a, 946 b, the respective outer skins 950 a, 950 b, and therespective side portions 974 of the splicing member 954. The splicingmember 954 seals the junction between the panels 942 a, 942 b on theexterior of the trailer 20 a so as to seal the interior from moisture.Moreover, because the flat top and bottom portions 970, 972 are seatedunder the top and bottom rails 38 a, 40 a, moisture does not penetrateinto the interior of the trailer 20 a and cause damage to the freight ofthe trailer 20 a or to the trailer 20 a itself.

In the first, second, third and ninth embodiments of the novel compositejoint constructions 144, 244, 344, 944, to engage the rivets 168, 268,368, 968 with the logistics plate 152, 252, 352, 952 the splicing member154, 254, 354, 954 and the respective first and second panels 142 a, 142b; 242 a, 242 b; 342 a, 342 b; 942 a, 942 b each rivet 168, 268, 368,968 is engaged by using the method and apparatus disclosed in co-pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/620,999, which disclosure has beenincorporated by reference. Coining the ends of the panels 142 a, 142 b;242 a, 242 b; 342 a, 342 b; 942 a, 942 b as described herein, condensesthe plastic core member 146 a, 146 b; 246 a, 246 b; 346 a, 346 b; 946 a,946 b sufficiently to support clamping force or pressure from the rivets168, 268, 368, 968 without subsequent loosening. If desired, holes canbe provided through the logistic panel 152, 252, 352, 952 and thesplicing member 154, 254, 354, 954 through which the rivets 168, 268,368, 968 are engaged.

In addition, in the first, second, third and ninth embodiments of thecomposite joint configurations 144, 244, 344, 944, it is envisioned thatan insert, as discussed herein with respect to the fifth embodimentshown in FIG. 7, can be provided in the construction of theseembodiments of the trailer sidewalls.

Attention is now directed to the tenth embodiment of the novel jointconfiguration 1044 shown in FIG. 16. In this embodiment, first andsecond composite panels 1042 a, 1042 b are joined together by alogistics plate 1052 on the inside of the trailer 20 which extends alongthe entire height of the panels 1042 a, 1042 b and the splicing memberprovided in the first, second, third and ninth embodiments has beeneliminated.

At one end of the first panel 1042 a, as shown in FIG. 16, the outerskin 1050 a has a length that is substantially longer than the length ofthe inner skin 1048 a. The end of the outer skin 1050 a freely projectsbeyond the end of the core member 1046 a and the inner skin 1048 a. Atthe other end of the panel 1042 a (not shown), the inner skin 1048 a,the outer skin 1050 a and the core member 1046 a all extend the samelength in an identical structure to the end of the second panel 1042 bshown in FIG. 16.

At one end of the second panel 1042 b, as shown in FIG. 16, the innerskin 1048 b, the outer skin 1050 b and the core member 1046 b all extendthe same length. At the opposite end of the second panel 1042 b (notshown), the construction is identical to the end of the first panel 1042a shown in FIG. 16.

Each of the inner skins 1048 a, 1048 b of each panel 1042 a, 1042 b hasan inner surface 1073 a, 1073 b. Each end of the inner skins 1048 a,1048 b of each panel 1042 a, 1042 b has an end section 1074 a, 1074 b(only one of which is shown on each panel 1042 a, 1042 b) which includesa groove 1076 a, 1076 b formed therein proximate to, but spaced from,the end of the panels 1042 a, 1042 b. The remainder of the innersurfaces 1073 a, 1073 b of the inner skins 1048 a, 1048 b of the panels1042 a, 1042 b remain planar. When the groove 1076 a, 1076 b is formedin the end section 1074 a, 1074 b of each inner skin 1048 a, 1048 b, thecore member 1046 a, 1046 b is squeezed or compressed between the innerand outer skins 1048 a, 1050 a; 1048 b, 1050 b and the core member 1046a, 1046 b may slightly extrude outwardly from the ends of the skins 1048a, 1050 a; 1048 b, 1050 b and into the air pocket 1058 formed betweenthe panels 1042 a, 1042 b. The grooves 1076 a, 1076 b may be formed bycoining.

The logistics plate 1052 acts like a post and is a member having a flatintermediate portion 1078 with opposite edges 1080 a, 1080 b which arerolled. The logistics plate 1042 has an inner surface 1081 that isplanar, except for the opposite edges 1080 a, 1080 b. A plurality ofspaced openings or slots 1062 are provided through the flat intermediateportion 1078 of the logistics plate 1052. The slots 1062 provide a meansfor which equipment can be engaged, for example by a clip or a hook, tothe sidewalls 24 of the trailer 20. The logistics plate 1052 ispreferably formed from a heavier and stronger material than the materialthat is used for the skins 1048 a, 1050 a; 1048 b, 1050 b to provide thesidewall with strength and rigidity.

When the logistics plate 1052 is joined with the inner skins 1048 a,1048 b of the panels 1042 a, 1042 b, the rolled edges 1080 a, 1080 b ofthe logistics plate 1052 sit within the respective grooves 1076 a, 1076b in the end sections 1074 a, 1074 b, such that the opposite edges 1080a, 1080 b are within substantially the same plane as the inner surfaces1073 a, 1073 b of the inner skins 1048 a, 1048 b of each panel 1042 a,1042 b, which is a different plane than the inner surface 1081 of thelogistics plate 1052, and the flat intermediate portion 1078 spans theair pocket 1058 such that the slots 1062 align with the air pocket 1058so that clips or hooks can be engaged with the slots 1062. The rollededges 1080 a, 1080 b, when seated in the grooves 1076 a, 1076 b, providea smooth transition from the logistics plate 1052 to the inner skins1048 a, 1048 b to substantially prevent snagging of cargo on the edgesof the logistics plate 1052. Rivets 1068 are engaged through the ends ofthe logistics plate 1052, the respective inner skins 1048 a, 1048 b, therespective core members 1046 a, 1046 b and the respective outer skins1050 a, 1050 b.

The extension of the first panel outer skin 1050 a eliminates the needfor the separate splicing member as used in the first, second, third andninth embodiments described herein. The outer skin 1050 a is very thin,however, and, as such, does not provide as much reinforcement as thesplicing member provides. The extension of the first panel outer skin1050 a seals the junction between the panels 1042 a, 1042 b on theexterior of the trailer 20 so as to seal the interior of the trailer 20from moisture.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown anddescribed, it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devisevarious modifications of the present invention without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, in any of theembodiments which uses a logistics plate, the logistics plate may beflat or bulge inwardly. Also, in any of the embodiments which uses asplicing member, the splicing member may be flat or bulge outwardly andmay have the flat top and bottom portions if a bulge is provided. Aninsert could be provided in any of the embodiments or eliminated in theembodiments where it is shown.

1. A joint between side panels adapted for use in a sidewall of atrailer body and the like, comprising: a pair of panels, each said panelhaving opposite sides and opposite ends, each said panel being comprisedof an inner skin, an outer skin and a core member between said innerskin and said outer skin; a member for joining said panels together andfor spacing at least a portion of said panel ends apart from each othera predetermined distance; and a splicing member for joining said panelstogether, said splicing member having, a top and a bottom, a firstportion proximate to said top of said splicing member which is generallyflat, and a second portion which bulges outwardly from said firstportion and extends toward said bottom of said splicing member.
 2. Ajoint as defined in claim 1, wherein said member is a logistics platehaving a plurality of apertures therethrough for acceptance of anassociated member.
 3. A joint between side panels adapted for use in asidewall of a trailer body and the like, comprising: a pair of panels,each said panel having opposite sides and opposite ends, each said panelbeing comprised of an inner skin, an outer skin and a core memberbetween said inner skin and said outer skin; a member for joining saidpanels together and for spacing at least a portion of said panel endsapart from each other a predetermined distance; and a splicing memberfor joining said panels together, said splicing member having, a top anda bottom, a first portion proximate to said bottom of said splicingmember which is generally flat, and a second portion which bulgesoutwardly from said first portion and extends toward said top of saidsplicing member.
 4. A joint as defined in claim 3, wherein said memberis a logistics plate having a plurality of apertures therethrough foracceptance of an associated member.
 5. A trailer body comprising: a top;a floor; side walls, each said side wall comprised of at least a pair ofpanels, each said panel having opposite sides and opposite ends andbeing comprised of an inner skin, an outer skin and a core memberbetween said inner skin and said outer skin; top rails connecting eachsaid side wall and said top; bottom rails connecting each said side walland said floor; a member for joining said panels together and forspacing at least a portion of said panels ends apart from each other apredetermined distance; and a splicing member for joining said panelstogether, said splicing member having, a top and a bottom, a firstportion proximate to said top of said splicing member which is generallyflat, said first portion facilitating attachment of said splicing memberto said top rails, and a second portion which bulges outwardly from saidfirst portion and extends toward said bottom of said splicing member. 6.A trailer body as defined in claim 5, wherein said member is a logisticsplate having a plurality of apertures therethrough for acceptance of anassociated member.
 7. A trailer body comprising: a top; a floor; sidewalls, each said side wall comprised of at least a pair of panels, eachsaid panel having opposite sides and opposite ends and being comprisedof an inner skin, an outer skin and a core member between said innerskin and said outer skin; top rails connecting each said side wall andsaid top; bottom rails connecting each said side wall and said floor; amember for joining said panels together and for spacing at least aportion of said panels ends apart from each other a predetermineddistance; and a splicing member for joining said panels together, saidsplicing member having, a top and a bottom, a first portion proximate tosaid bottom of said splicing member which is generally flat, said firstportion facilitating attachment of said splicing member to said bottomrails, and a second portion which bulges outwardly from said firstportion and extends toward said top of said splicing member.
 8. Atrailer body as defined in claim 7, wherein said member is a logisticsplate having a plurality of apertures therethrough for acceptance of anassociated member.
 9. A joint as defined in claim 1, wherein said pairof panels are spaced apart from each other said predetermined distancesuch that a gap is defined between said pair of panels and between saidjoining and spacing member and said splicing member, said gap beinglarger between said second portion of said splicing member and saidjoining and spacing member than between said first portion of saidsplicing member and said joining and spacing member.
 10. A joint asdefined in claim 9, wherein said gap is accessible through said joiningand spacing member but is not accessible through said splicing member.11. A joint as defined in claim 1, wherein said joining and spacingmember is configured to join said inner skins of each said paneltogether, and wherein said splicing member is configured to join saidouter skins of each said panel together such that said second portion ofsaid splicing member bulges outwardly from said outer skins of each saidpanel.
 12. A joint as defined in claim 1, wherein said second portion ofsaid splicing member is provided at a central area of said splicingmember.
 13. A joint as defined in claim 3, wherein said pair of panelsare spaced apart from each other said predetermined distance such that agap is defined between said pair of panels and between said joining andspacing member and said splicing member, said gap being larger betweensaid second portion of said splicing member and said joining and spacingmember than between said first portion of said splicing member and saidjoining and spacing member.
 14. A joint as defined in claim 13, whereinsaid gap is accessible through said joining and spacing member but isnot accessible through said splicing member.
 15. A joint as defined inclaim 3, wherein said joining and spacing member is configured to joinsaid inner skins of each said panel together, and wherein said splicingmember is configured to join said outer skins of each said paneltogether such that said second portion of said splicing member bulgesoutwardly from said outer skins of each said panel.
 16. A joint asdefined in claim 3, wherein said second portion of said splicing memberis provided at a central area of said splicing member.
 17. A trailerbody as defined in claim 5, wherein said pair of panels are spaced apartfrom each other said predetermined distance such that a gap is definedbetween said pair of panels and between said joining and spacing memberand said splicing member, said gap being larger between said secondportion of said splicing member and said joining and spacing member thanbetween said first portion of said splicing member and said joining andspacing member.
 18. A trailer body as defined in claim 17, wherein saidgap is accessible through said joining and spacing member but is notaccessible through said splicing member.
 19. A trailer body as definedin claim 5, wherein said joining and spacing member is configured tojoin said inner skins of each said panel together, and wherein saidsplicing member is configured to join said outer skins of each saidpanel together such that said second portion of said splicing memberbulges outwardly from said outer skins of each said panel.
 20. A trailerbody as defined in claim 5, wherein said second portion of said splicingmember is provided at a central area of said splicing member.
 21. Atrailer body as defined in claim 5, wherein said first portion of saidsplicing member is generally positioned between said panels and said toprails.
 22. A trailer body as defined in claim 7, wherein said pair ofpanels are spaced apart from each other said predetermined distance suchthat a gap is defined between said pair of panels and between saidjoining and spacing member and said splicing member, said gap beinglarger between said second portion of said splicing member and saidjoining and spacing member than between said first portion of saidsplicing member and said joining and spacing member.
 23. A trailer bodyas defined in claim 22, wherein said gap is accessible through saidjoining and spacing member but is not accessible through said splicingmember.
 24. A trailer body as defined in claim 7, wherein said joiningand spacing member is configured to join said inner skins of each saidpanel together, and wherein said splicing member is configured to joinsaid outer skins of each said panel together such that said secondportion of said splicing member bulges outwardly from said outer skinsof each said panel.
 25. A trailer body as defined in claim 7, whereinsaid second portion of said splicing member is provided at a centralarea of said splicing member.
 26. A trailer body as defined in claim 7,wherein said first portion of said splicing member is generallypositioned between said panels and said bottom rails.